[Cochran was] suspended for one month without pay and will be required to complete sensitivity training.

In the book based on Christian values, Cochran identifies himself as Atlanta’s fire chief and says his first priority as chief is to run the department “to cultivate its culture to the glory of God.”

He also has critical views on homosexuality, at one point equating it to bestiality.

City officials say Cochran violated city policy by publishing a book without permission.

“One of the most alarming things is that we did not know about the book when it was published,” city spokeswoman Anne Torres said.

If the only issue is that he violated city protocol by publishing without permission, then the issue is one of submitting to authority — a valid concern for any Christian. But that’s not the case. If it had been about fly fishing, he wouldn’t be forced to endure “sensitivity training.” Mayor Reed’s statement left no doubt that merely expressing such views is the new discrimination:

I was surprised and disappointed to learn of this book on Friday. I profoundly disagree with and am deeply disturbed by the sentiments expressed in the paperback regarding the LGBT community. I will not tolerate discrimination of any kind within my administration.